Press release: First Co-chairs announced to lead the David Hume Institute

Ahead of its 40th anniversary DHI announces changes to the board

19th March 2024 

For the first time in its history, the David Hume Institute board will be led by Co-chairs. Professor Jan Bebbington and Liz Ditchburn were elected to the new roles on Tuesday evening.

Professor Jan Bebbington and Liz Ditchburn take over from Kenneth Barker, former partner of Baillie Gifford, who will stand down as Chair after six years on the board. Also standing down as a trustees after six years is Christine O’Neill KC, Chair of Brodies LLP.

The David Hume Institute, a leading Scottish think tank, was set up in 1985 to increase diversity of thought on the economy and society.  Its recently launched Economy in Plain in English events underline their mission to demystify the economy and build on its quarterly Understanding Scotland Economy Tracker which collates people’s spending intentions and perceptions of the economy.

Professor Jan Bebbington said: “I am delighted to be elected Co-Chair of the David Hume Institute at this critical time where we enter a new age and stage of the organisation.  Our society has big challenges ahead and DHI will be there supporting Scotland’s decision makers to better understand data and trends.

Liz Ditchburn said: “The David Hume Institute has been at the centre of public debate for almost forty years. I am thrilled to be joining such a strong board and take up the role of Co-Chair alongside Professor Bebbington.”

David Hume Institute Director, Susan Murray said “We would like to thank Kenneth Barker as Chair and fellow long-standing trustee, Christine O’Neill KC for their hard work and dedication.  It is only because of volunteers like them that DHI exists and can continue to deliver rigorous research and thought-provoking events. We are delighted to welcome Jan and Liz to their new roles as Co-chairs and look forward to the organisation going from strength to strength in the years ahead.”

About Jan

Professor Jan Bebbington is Director of the Pentland Centre for Sustainability in Business at Lancaster University where she researches the intersections between sustainable development concerns and organisations. Alongside her academic work, Jan has been Vice Chair of the Sustainable Development Commission from 2006 to 2011. In 2018 the Royal Scottish Geographical Society awarded her an Honorary Fellowship.

About Liz

Liz Ditchburn has more than 35 years’ experience as a public sector leader.  Her last executive role was as Director General for Economy for the Scottish Government.  She is currently a Non-Executive Director of the Net Zero Technology Centre, a board member of Women’s Enterprise Scotland, Trustee at NESTA and an honorary professor at the Adam Smith Business School, University of Glasgow.  She has recently been appointed as a Commissioner for the UK Independent Commission for Aid Impact.